The Hare of Inaba: Unveiling Japan’s Ancient Myth in Tottori
Japan is a land deeply woven with folklore, where spirits inhabit nature and ancient gods walk among mortals. While many travelers flock to Kyoto or Tokyo for culture, the coastal prefecture of Tottori holds one of the country’s most significant and charming myths: the story of the Hare of Inaba (Inaba no Shiro Usagi). This tale is not just a bedtime story; it is a foundational myth recorded in Japan’s oldest history books, influencing local culture, religious practices, and even the region’s tourism today.
Origins: A Tale from the Kojiki
The story of the White Hare of Inaba comes from the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters), compiled in 712 AD. This text serves as the primary source for Shinto mythology and the imperial lineage. The tale takes place in the ancient province of Inaba, which constitutes the eastern part of modern-day Tottori Prefecture.
Unlike many myths that focus solely on battles and creation, this story centers on compassion, medical healing, and the consequences of deceit. It serves as an origin story for Okuninushi, one of the most important deities in Shintoism, known as the god of nation-building, agriculture, and medicine. The hare acts as the catalyst that proves Okuninushi’s worthiness over his cruel brothers.
The Legend of the White Hare
The legend begins on the Oki Islands. A white hare wanted to cross the sea to the mainland of Inaba but had no way to swim the distance. Being a clever trickster, the hare called out to the wanizame (a creature debated by scholars to be either a shark or a crocodile, though traditionally depicted as a shark in this region).
The hare challenged the sharks to a contest to see whose clan was larger. He instructed them to line up back-to-back from the island to the mainland so he could count them. As the hare hopped across their backs, counting aloud, he reached the very end. Just as he was about to jump onto the shore, he foolishly mocked them, admitting, “You fools! I just used you as a bridge!”
Enraged, the last shark snapped at the hare, ripping his fur and skin off, leaving him raw and weeping in the sand.
The Cruelty of the Eighty Gods
Moments later, a group of eighty deities (brothers) passed by. They were on their way to woo the beautiful Princess Yagami. Seeing the suffering hare, they decided to play a cruel prank. They told the hare to wash in the salty sea and dry himself in the wind. This, of course, caused the salt to sting and the skin to crack, causing the hare unbearable agony.
The Kindness of Okuninushi
Finally, Okuninushi arrived, lagging behind as he carried his brothers’ heavy luggage. Seeing the weeping creature, he asked what happened. Upon hearing the story, Okuninushi instructed the hare to wash in the fresh water of the river and roll in the pollen of cattails (gamanoho) to heal his skin.
The hare did so and was fully restored. In gratitude, the hare made a prophecy: “Your brothers shall never win the heart of Princess Yagami. You, despite your burden, shall be the one to marry her.” The prophecy came true, cementing the hare’s status as a deity of matchmaking and prophecy.
Modern Culture and Significance
Today, the Hare of Inaba is a beloved cultural icon in Tottori. The myth has transformed the rabbit into a symbol of Enmusubi (matchmaking and connecting people). Couples and singles alike flock to the region to pray for romantic luck.
The Hakuto Shrine
The epicenter of this legend is Hakuto Shrine (Hakuto Jinja). Situated along the coast overlooking the Sea of Japan, this shrine is dedicated to the white rabbit spirit. It is a unique atmospheric location where the shimenawa (sacred rope) and amulets feature rabbit motifs. The approach to the shrine is lined with stone statues of rabbits in various poses, often surrounded by white stones engraved with the character for “affinity” or “love.”
Beyond romance, the hare is also revered as a god of veterinary medicine and skin healing, owing to the treatment prescribed by Okuninushi.
Traveler’s Tips: Visiting Tottori
If you are planning to visit the home of this mythical rabbit, here is how to make the most of your trip:
- Getting There: Tottori is accessible via the “Super Hakuto” express train from Osaka or Kyoto. Once in Tottori City, Hakuto Shrine is a short 40-minute bus ride from Tottori Station. The route offers stunning views of the coastline.
- Must-See Locations:
- Hakuto Coast: Just opposite the shrine lies the actual beach where the legend is said to have occurred. You can see the island of Okinoshima in the distance.
- Mitarashi Ike: A pond near the shrine that, according to legend, does not dry up or overflow regardless of the weather. This is where the hare washed his wounds.
- Local Souvenirs: Look for Inaba no Shiro Usagi manju (steamed buns). These rabbit-shaped sweets filled with yolk paste are the most famous souvenir in the prefecture.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your trip with a visit to the Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest sand dunes in Japan, located just a few kilometers away.
Sources & Further Reading
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): Translated by Basil Hall Chamberlain or Donald L. Philippi. This is the primary source of the myth.
- Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): For comparative mythology and historical context of the Izumo region.
- Tottori Prefecture Official Tourism Guide: For up-to-date travel logistics regarding Hakuto Shrine.